Which type of joint allows for rotational movement?

Which type of joint allows for rotational movement?

• A. Ball-and-socket joint
• B. Hinge joint
• C. Pivot joint
• D. Gliding joint

Answer: (C)

The correct answer is the pivot joint because it is specifically designed to allow for rotational movement between two bones. In a pivot joint, one bone rotates around another, which enables movements such as turning the head side to side. For example, the joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae (the atlas and axis) allows for significant rotation of the head. In contrast, the ball-and-socket joint allows for a wide range of movements, including rotational movement, but not in the way that a pivot joint does; it allows for flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation all in one joint. A hinge joint primarily permits movement in one direction (flexion and extension), while a gliding joint allows for limited sliding or twisting motions, but lacks the rotational capability characteristic of a pivot joint. Thus, among the different joint types, the pivot joint is uniquely suited for rotation around a single axis.

The correct answer is the pivot joint because it is specifically designed to allow for rotational movement between two bones. In a pivot joint, one bone rotates around another, which enables movements such as turning the head side to side. For example, the joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae (the atlas and axis) allows for significant rotation of the head.

In contrast, the ball-and-socket joint allows for a wide range of movements, including rotational movement, but not in the way that a pivot joint does; it allows for flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation all in one joint. A hinge joint primarily permits movement in one direction (flexion and extension), while a gliding joint allows for limited sliding or twisting motions, but lacks the rotational capability characteristic of a pivot joint. Thus, among the different joint types, the pivot joint is uniquely suited for rotation around a single axis.